Linux & Windows VPS - Making Your Decision

Virtual
private servers enable users to be in control, protect their privacy,
and utilize many digital resources. But,
choosing a proper operating system is crucial for supporting these
functions. There are two major choices you should consider- Windows
and Linux. They have some similarities and share certain basic
functions. However, each option has its pros and cons one must take
into account before making an educated decision.

Measuring
up Linux

Most
people are used to Windows OS on their desktops, but VPS hosting is a different league.
Linux is widely popular when it comes to web hosting, and for good
reasons too. First off, Linux is an open source OS, which means you
do not have any licensing costs.

This
is a clear advantage over Windows which requires a few extra bucks.
Moreover, open source nature allows Linux to work like a charm with
other open source programming applications and languages like PHP.
You can as well consider other OS options such as Debian, Ubuntu and
CentOS.

Servers
for this OS are not optimized to such extent as those for Windows,
and Linux-compatible applications can be customized to require fewer
system resources. With features such as VPS control
panel, for example, you can ensure that RAM is used more efficiently.
And SSH Access makes the server load time faster and provides better
overall control than Windows counterpart.

Linux
hosting infrastructure supports various databases, with the most
common providers like PostgreSQL and MySQL stealing the show. Data
retrieval is fast due to the well-optimized communication with a
website. This is another string added to the Linux bow.

Window
of opportunity

One
of the aces up Windows’ sleeve is the support for ASP.NET and
classic ASP scripts. Those who use ASP should thus consider this
popular OS as their first choice. But, this is not the only advantage
Windows has, far from it. Windows server environment is easier to
navigate, so it is a better solution for those with limited technical
and IT skills.

Apart
from the ASP.NET, those using VB.NET and Microsoft.NET will find
Windows invaluable for their efforts. Furthermore, it allows you to
make the most of MySQL and Microsoft Access database, something that
Linux cannot provide.

Another
handy feature is the Microsoft
SharePoint software platform
that successfully combines web publishing with collaboration on one
server. It allows website development which includes content
management systems, search engines, intranets, blogs and other great
tools.

Windows
incorporates the remote access option, enabling users to gain a
visual view of the server’s configuration. Although Linux has a SSH
feature, it is a text-based interface that takes time to learn and
master. It is not as easy and intuitive as the admired Windows
Interface.

Finally,
users can get a whole lot of support for Windows, and receive regular
updates. However, as a commercial system, Windows is more expensive.
It is also not that good at integrating other open source platforms,
but is superior when working with Microsoft programs and software.

The choice is
yours

The VPS hosting
solution is used to scale up your resources, store and access data
and run applications. The decision between the two can make or break your
hosting attempts, so chose carefully. When titans like Linux and
Microsoft clash on digital battleground, results are compelling.

Bear in mind that
in the end, it all depends on your needs and ways you want to use the
VPS hosting. If MS SQL, ASP and SharePoint are critical for your
work, then Microsoft hosting is a more sound option. On the other
hand, Linux is a cheaper alternative, and tailored to those who
prefer open source solutions.

A LINUX enthusiast and tech passionate guy. Love to watch Anime and play cricket. Got extra bit of care in myself, guess that's what people call selfishness :-P Google+